Bangladesh growth forecast cut to 3.2% as inflation outlook rises

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut Bangladesh’s economic growth forecast for fiscal 2026-27 to 3.2% and raised its average inflation projection to 10.9%, The Business Standard reported Tuesday.

The projections in its October World Economic Outlook compare with April estimates of 4.3% growth and 6% inflation. The IMF had lowered its growth forecast to 3.5% in July.

The latest growth estimate is below the World Bank’s 3.4% projection and the Asian Development Bank’s 4% forecast for Bangladesh. These figures are forecasts, rather than measured economic outcomes.

Finance minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury appealed to development partners for support during annual meetings in Bangkok. He met IMF executive director Urjit Patel and World Bank managing director of operations Anna Bjerde on Tuesday as Bangladesh sought financing and discussed economic reforms.